University College / en In photos: 91勛圖 campuses spring to life as students move into residence, head to first day of class /news/photos-u-t-campuses-spring-life-students-move-residence-head-first-day-class <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">In photos: 91勛圖 campuses spring to life as students move into residence, head to first day of class</span> <div class="field field--name-field-featured-picture field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="eager" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2024-09/2024-08-26-Move-in-day-7_Jacob-Domingo-Chan-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=JX71xKbg 370w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_740/public/2024-09/2024-08-26-Move-in-day-7_Jacob-Domingo-Chan-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=mFAge0WI 740w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_1110/public/2024-09/2024-08-26-Move-in-day-7_Jacob-Domingo-Chan-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=kO9z9E3j 1110w" sizes="(min-width:1200px) 1110px, (max-width: 1199px) 80vw, (max-width: 767px) 90vw, (max-width: 575px) 95vw" width="740" height="494" src="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2024-09/2024-08-26-Move-in-day-7_Jacob-Domingo-Chan-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=JX71xKbg" alt="&quot;&quot;"> </div> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>rahul.kalvapalle</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2024-09-03T09:00:15-04:00" title="Tuesday, September 3, 2024 - 09:00" class="datetime">Tue, 09/03/2024 - 09:00</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-cutline-long field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cutline</div> <div class="field__item"><p><em>Jacob Domingo Chan, third from left, was among many first-year students who received a helping hand as they moved into residences on 91勛圖's three campuses ahead of the new school year (photo by Polina Teif)</em></p> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-author-reporters field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/authors-reporters/rahul-kalvapalle" hreflang="en">Rahul Kalvapalle</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-topic field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Topic</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/topics/our-community" hreflang="en">Our Community</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/back-school-2024" hreflang="en">Back to School 2024</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/graduate-students" hreflang="en">Graduate Students</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/st-george" hreflang="en">St. George</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/trinity-college" hreflang="en">Trinity College</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/u-t-mississauga" hreflang="en">91勛圖 Mississauga</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/u-t-scarborough" hreflang="en">91勛圖 Scarborough</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/undergraduate-students" hreflang="en">Undergraduate Students</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/university-college" hreflang="en">University College</a></div> </div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The 91勛圖s three campuses are abuzz with excitement as students from the Toronto region, across Canada and around the world kicked off a new school year.</p> <p>The fall 2024 semester marked the first time that students on the St. George campus, 91勛圖 Scarborough and 91勛圖 Mississauga had their first day of classes on the same day, Sept. 3 part of an effort to align key academic dates across the university.&nbsp;</p> <p>AskMe Anything volunteers were also out in full force to offer tips and guidance, especially to the thousands of first-year students navigating the first day of their post-secondary education.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">91勛圖 President <strong>Meric Gertler </strong>welcomed new and returning students, as well as faculty, staff and librarians, in a <a href="/news/your-gateway-world-president-meric-gertler-welcomes-u-t-community-fall-term">video message</a> released last week.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">[91勛圖] is an exciting place to be, and this is an exciting time to be a part of it, he said.</p> <p>Photographers were on hand across all three campuses in recent days to capture the sights and energy of a new academic year:</p> <hr> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-09/2024-09-03-First-Day-Campus-Shots-%2824%29-crop.jpg?itok=TnwFA9MM" width="750" height="500" alt="First day of fall semester at 91勛圖 St. George " class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Johnny Guatto)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Welcome signs wrap 91勛圖s main gates on the St. George campus&nbsp;as students make their way to and from classes on the first day of a new school year.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-09/0830UTM009-crop.jpg?itok=X-9ZjuPE" width="750" height="500" alt="Students move into 91勛圖 Mississauga residences" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>The weeks leading up to the first day of school featured plenty of enthusiasm as students and their families carted belongings into residences at 91勛圖 Mississauga.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-09/2024-08-26-Move-in-day-2-crop.jpg?itok=jCyOmMLF" width="750" height="500" alt="University College volunteers at residence move-in" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Polina Teif)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>At St. George, volunteers and residence staff were on hand to provide a warm welcome, refreshments and help hoisting bins and boxes.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-09/2024-08-26-Move-in-day-4_Cassidy-Smith-crop.jpg?itok=5JVCAM0_" width="750" height="500" alt="University College first-year student Cassidy Smith and her mother" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Polina Teif)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>I was nervous at first, but everyones been so welcoming, said University College student <strong>Cassidy Smith</strong>, who posed for an Aug. 25 photo with her mother as she moved into her dorm.</p> <p>Theres such a good energy around the place and I can feel that this is going to be like a second home to me."</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-09/TER01491-crop.jpg?itok=o8KohKDO" width="750" height="500" alt="91勛圖 Scarborough students move into residence" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Terrence Tong)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>At 91勛圖 Scarborough, luggage carts and several volunteers helped ferry students belongings between the parking lot and residence buildings.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-09/2024-08-26-Move-in-day-19_Gabriella-Baichwal-crop.jpg?itok=nOFByAsF" width="750" height="500" alt="Trinity College student Gabriella Baichwal with her parents" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Polina Teif)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p><strong>Gabriella Baichwal</strong>, who was born in Toronto and grew up in Chicago, joked that she brought way too much stuff to fill up her single room in Trinity College on the St. George campus.</p> <p>I brought all my clothes, a mini-fridge and all of this stuff, and I feel like a spoiled brat. But thats OK youve gotta do what youve gotta do, said Baichwal, as her parents helped unload items from their vehicles roof.</p> <p>Her father,&nbsp;<strong>Ravi Baichwal</strong>,&nbsp;whose own father went to grad school at 91勛圖 in the 1960s after moving from India, said he was incredibly proud of his daughter for following in her grandfathers footsteps.</p> <p>I have that incredible pit of anxiety and hope all mixed up into one, he said.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-09/2024-08-30-Cheer-off-Clubs-Day_Polina-Teif-23-crop.jpg?itok=4RsZ-tVT" width="750" height="500" alt="Cheer-off on Front Campus" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Polina Teif)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>There were plenty of opportunities for students to meet new friends, showcase their school spirit and learn about extra-curricular opportunities at the tri-campus cheer-off event and clubs carnival held on the St. George campus ahead of the Labour Day long weekend.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-09/2024-08-30-Cheer-off-Clubs-Day_Polina-Teif-49-crop.jpg?itok=-zXQ-dLt" width="750" height="500" alt="Clubs carnival on Front Campus" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Polina Teif)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p class="MsoNormal">More than 300 91勛圖 clubs were present at the clubs carnival, an annual event organized by the 91勛圖 Students' Union. There is also a <a href="https://utm-orientation-2024.attendease.com/attendease/networking/experience/ddb70d19-f47a-45c8-be82-686d057b7ff1/8d9eaaf5-9049-427d-a54d-3fa894648ae5">Student Groups Fair</a> on Sept. 5 and 6 at 91勛圖 Mississauga, and a <a href="https://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/orientation/#15">UTSC Clubs Fair</a> at 91勛圖 Scarborough on Sept. 23.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-09/0830UTM015-crop.jpg?itok=J0RpkMrV" width="750" height="500" alt="&quot;&quot;" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Orientation programs at 91勛圖 Mississauga included a painting activity that invited students to harness their creativity.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-09/TER01515-crop.jpg?itok=IQYYNQmH" width="750" height="500" alt="91勛圖 Scarborough student moves into residence" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Terrence Tong)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p class="MsoNormal">It was all smiles at 91勛圖 Scarborough as students, friends and family settled in for the fall term.</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-home-page-banner field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News home page banner</div> <div class="field__item">Off</div> </div> Tue, 03 Sep 2024 13:00:15 +0000 rahul.kalvapalle 309216 at 91勛圖 community members recognized with Order of Canada /news/u-t-community-members-recognized-order-canada-1 <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">91勛圖 community members recognized with Order of Canada</span> <div class="field field--name-field-featured-picture field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="eager" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2024-07/GG05-2016-0448-002-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=jYW8P-by 370w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_740/public/2024-07/GG05-2016-0448-002-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=ZxNzYrl8 740w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_1110/public/2024-07/GG05-2016-0448-002-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=Y37ZameF 1110w" sizes="(min-width:1200px) 1110px, (max-width: 1199px) 80vw, (max-width: 767px) 90vw, (max-width: 575px) 95vw" width="740" height="494" src="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2024-07/GG05-2016-0448-002-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=jYW8P-by" alt="order of canada medals on a black background"> </div> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>bresgead</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2024-07-04T12:49:13-04:00" title="Thursday, July 4, 2024 - 12:49" class="datetime">Thu, 07/04/2024 - 12:49</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-cutline-long field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cutline</div> <div class="field__item"><p><em>(photo by Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall, OSGG-BSGG)</em></p> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-author-reporters field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/authors-reporters/adina-bresge" hreflang="en">Adina Bresge</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-topic field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Topic</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/topics/our-community" hreflang="en">Our Community</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/temerty-faculty-medicine" hreflang="en">Temerty Faculty of Medicine</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/unity-health" hreflang="en">Unity Health</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/institute-health-policy-management-and-evaluation" hreflang="en">Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/alumni" hreflang="en">Alumni</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/chemistry" hreflang="en">Chemistry</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/dalla-lana-school-public-health" hreflang="en">Dalla Lana School of Public Health</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/faculty-applied-science-engineering" hreflang="en">Faculty of Applied Science &amp; Engineering</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/faculty-arts-science" hreflang="en">Faculty of Arts &amp; Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/faculty-music" hreflang="en">Faculty of Music</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/hospital-sick-children" hreflang="en">Hospital for Sick Children</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/leslie-dan-faculty-pharmacy" hreflang="en">Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/order-canada" hreflang="en">Order of Canada</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/political-science" hreflang="en">Political Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/st-michael-s-college" hreflang="en">St. Michael's College</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/university-college" hreflang="en">University College</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/university-health-network" hreflang="en">University Health Network</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/victoria-college" hreflang="en">Victoria College</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-subheadline field--type-string-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Subheadline</div> <div class="field__item">"The Order of Canada recognizes individuals who have made positive and lasting impacts on communities here in Canada or who have brought honour to our country abroad"</div> </div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>An innovator in chemical catalyst development. A global leader in cardiac surgery and care. And a public health expert who led the rollout of Canadas first colon cancer screening program.</p> <p>These are a few members of the 91勛圖 community who were recently honoured with appointments or promotions within the Order of Canada.</p> <p>The Governor General <a href="http://www.gg.ca/en/media/news/2024/order-canada-june">recently announced 83 new appointments</a> to the Order of Canada, including two promotions within the Order.</p> <p>They include <strong>Doug Stephan</strong>, a<a href="https://www.provost.utoronto.ca/awards-funding/university-professors/"> University Professor</a>&nbsp;of chemistry in the Faculty of Arts &amp; Science; <strong>Lee Errett</strong>, a professor in the Temerty Faculty of Medicines department of surgery, and&nbsp;<strong>Linda Rabeneck</strong>, a health executive and&nbsp;professor in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine and the Dalla Lana School of Public Health.</p> <p>Established in 1967, the Order of Canada is one of the countrys highest honours, recognizing extraordinary contributions across all sectors of society.</p> <p>The Order of Canada recognizes individuals who have made positive and lasting impacts on communities here in Canada or who have brought honour to our country abroad, Gov. Gen. <strong>Mary Simon</strong> said in a statement.</p> <p>Here is a list of 91勛圖 faculty, alumni and supporters who were appointed to, or promoted within, the Order of Canada in the latest round of honourees.</p> <hr> <h4>Current and former faculty</h4> <p><strong>Edward Cole</strong>, a staff nephrologist at Toronto General Hospital and professor in the Temerty Faculty of Medicines department of medicine, was named a Member of the Order for his dedication to advancing and delivering care to people living with kidney disease, his instrumental role in establishing a globally impactful kidney-paired donation program and his leadership as former physician-in-chief at the University Health Network.</p> <p><strong>Lee Errett</strong>, a&nbsp;professor in the Temerty Faculty of Medicines department of surgery, was appointed a Member of the Order for his transformative leadership in cardiac research and care, including his role in establishing St. Michaels Hospital as a world-class centre for cardiac surgery, his dedication to educating future medical leaders and providing care in underserved areas worldwide.</p> <p><strong>Franklyn Griffiths</strong>, a professor emeritus and George Ignatieff Chair Emeritus of Peace and Conflict Studies in the department of political science in the Faculty of Arts &amp; Science, was appointed a Member of the Order for his scholarship on Russian affairs which has advanced the Western worlds understanding of Soviet politics. An expert in Arctic international relations, Griffiths helped create the Arctic Council and pushed for Indigenous voices to play a central role in the councils workings.</p> <p><strong>Beverley Johnston</strong>, an internationally renowned percussionist who is an adjunct professor in the Faculty of Music, was appointed an Officer of the Order for her work developing and promoting Canadian music to audiences around the world. Working in a male-dominated field, Johnstons unconventional performances combine classical transcriptions, contemporary music and an element of theatre.</p> <p><strong>Daphne Maurer</strong>, a professor emeritus of psychology, neuroscience and behaviour at McMaster University who holds a status appointment at 91勛圖s Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation in the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, was appointed an Officer of the Order for her research on visual and cognitive development in early childhood.</p> <p><strong>Linda Rabeneck</strong>, a gastroenterologist, health executive and&nbsp;professor in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine and the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, was named a Member of the Order for her leadership in colorectal cancer screening and prevention. Formerly the director of the Division of Gastroenterology at 91勛圖, she led the rollout of ColonCancerCheck, Canadas first province-wide screening program.</p> <p><strong>Stephen Randall</strong>, who earned his master's degree and doctorate at 91勛圖 and taught at the university from 1971 to 1974, was named a Member of the Order for his academic contributions and advisory role in international relations. A professor emeritus at the University of Calgary, Randalls expertise in myriad issues affecting the United States and Latin America, notably Colombia, has informed Canadas foreign policy.&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Bibudhendra Sarkar</strong>, senior scientist emeritus at the Research Institute of the Hospital for Sick Children and professor emeritus at 91勛圖s department of biochemistry in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine, was named a Member of the Order for his achievements in advancing medical research in Canada and abroad. He discovered a novel treatment for patients with Menkes disease, a rare genetic condition, and led international efforts in South and Southeast Asia to address public health crises from contaminated groundwater.</p> <p><strong>Jonathan Scott Rose</strong>, a professor in the Edward S. Rogers Sr. department of electrical and computer engineering in the Faculty of Applied Science &amp; Engineering, was named a Member of the Order for his pioneering work in architecture and software used in field-programmable gate arrays. Rose served as the chair of the department from 2004 to 2009 and received his PhD degree in electrical engineering from 91勛圖 in 1986.</p> <p><strong>Doug Stephan</strong>, a <a href="https://www.provost.utoronto.ca/awards-funding/university-professors/">University Professor</a> in the department of chemistry in the Faculty of Arts &amp; Science, was named an Officer of the Order in recognition his world-leading research in inorganic and organometallic chemistry. His many achievements include discovering and commercializing a new class of catalysts that is now used in one of the largest chemical manufacturing facilities in the world. He also achieved global renown for founding the field of Frustrated Lewis Pair chemistry.</p> <h4>Alumni and friends</h4> <p>Sleight-of-hand artist <strong>David Ben</strong>, who graduated from University College in 1983, was named a Member of the Order for his four decades of dedication to the exploration, development and preservation of magic, including penning several books on the subject and co-founding the Magicana organization.</p> <p><strong>William Fox</strong>, a research fellow and adjunct professor at Trent University who earned his honours bachelor of arts and master of arts in archeology at 91勛圖, was named a Member of the Order for his distinguished contributions to Canadian archeology, his leadership in the Ontario Archaeological Society, and his steadfast advocacy for the involvement of Indigenous communities in preserving their material heritage.</p> <p><strong>Martha Friendly</strong>, who founded the Childcare Resource and Research Unit at 91勛圖s Centre for Urban and Community Studies in the early 1980s, was appointed an Officer of the Order for her work with the now-independent non-profit and her advocacy for accessible, publicly funded early childhood education and care, and womens equality.</p> <p><strong>Rosemary Ganley</strong>, a writer, activist, teacher and an alumna of St. Michaels College, was named a Member of the Order for her lifelong advocacy for human rights, gender equity, and social justice, including co-founding Jamaican Self Help, an organization of Canadians working to support the development of healthy Jamaican communities.</p> <p><strong>Arnie Gelbart</strong>, a member of the Chancellors Circle of Benefactors, was named a Member of the Order for his decades-long leadership in independent film and television in his role as founder, executive producer and CEO of Galafilm Productions Inc.</p> <p><strong>Judy Kent</strong> was named a Member of the Order for championing sport as a catalyst for social change, her advocacy for gender equality and inclusion and her leadership in international support. Among her achievements: She was the first woman to serve as both president of Commonwealth Sport Canada and Canadas chef de mission for the Commonwealth Games, and her paper on sport for international development laid the foundation for the SportWORKS program.</p> <p><strong>James David Meekison</strong>, with a 45-year career spanning investment banking, cable television and private equity, was named a Member of the Order for his extensive philanthropy. The Jim Meekison and Carolyn Keystone Foundation supported 91勛圖s Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacys efforts to launch the Discovery Pharmacy on the St. George campus.</p> <p><strong>Michael Perley</strong>, a 91勛圖 alumnus who completed a masters degree in French language and literature, was named a Member of the Order for his lifelong dedication to tackling environmental and health challenges. He has been an advocate for tighter tobacco control laws, reducing second-hand smoke exposure and has led coalitions on acid rain and air pollution.</p> <p><strong>Dan Poenaru</strong>, a pediatric surgeon and professor at McGill University who earned two degrees at 91勛圖, was named a Member of the Order for his contributions to pediatric surgery in Africa, including establishing a surgical unit and training program in Kenya, co-founding three medical schools and leading initiatives for children's surgery globally.</p> <p><strong>Vaira Vike-Freiberga</strong>, an alumna of Victoria College and the first woman to serve as Latvias president, was named an honorary Officer of the Order for her work enriching Canada-Latvia relations and for reflecting Canadian values abroad.</p> <p><em> with files from Mariam Matti and Rahul Kalvapalle</em></p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-home-page-banner field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News home page banner</div> <div class="field__item">Off</div> </div> Thu, 04 Jul 2024 16:49:13 +0000 bresgead 308380 at Not in my wildest dreams: Refugee Jaivet Ealom on his journey to become a 91勛圖 grad /news/not-my-wildest-dreams-refugee-jaivet-ealom-his-journey-become-u-t-grad <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Not in my wildest dreams: Refugee Jaivet Ealom on his journey to become a 91勛圖 grad</span> <div class="field field--name-field-featured-picture field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="eager" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2024-06/0G5A9788-crop.jpg?h=062762c7&amp;itok=G39z3LCL 370w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_740/public/2024-06/0G5A9788-crop.jpg?h=062762c7&amp;itok=laH2EGUg 740w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_1110/public/2024-06/0G5A9788-crop.jpg?h=062762c7&amp;itok=jYjuGiWz 1110w" sizes="(min-width:1200px) 1110px, (max-width: 1199px) 80vw, (max-width: 767px) 90vw, (max-width: 575px) 95vw" width="740" height="494" src="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2024-06/0G5A9788-crop.jpg?h=062762c7&amp;itok=G39z3LCL" alt="Jaivet Ealom stands in front of Convocation Hall after his graduation ceremony"> </div> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>mattimar</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2024-06-24T10:05:45-04:00" title="Monday, June 24, 2024 - 10:05" class="datetime">Mon, 06/24/2024 - 10:05</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-cutline-long field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cutline</div> <div class="field__item"><p><em>Jaivet Ealom, who arrived in Canada in 2017 after fleeing Myanmar four years earlier, stands in front of 91勛圖s Convocation Hall&nbsp;(photo by Lisa Lightbourn)</em></p> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-author-reporters field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/authors-reporters/mariam-matti" hreflang="en">Mariam Matti</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-topic field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Topic</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/topics/global-lens" hreflang="en">Global Lens</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/convocation-2024" hreflang="en">Convocation 2024</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/economics" hreflang="en">Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/faculty-arts-science" hreflang="en">Faculty of Arts &amp; Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/global" hreflang="en">Global</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/political-science" hreflang="en">Political Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/university-college" hreflang="en">University College</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-subheadline field--type-string-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Subheadline</div> <div class="field__item">A member of the persecuted Rohingya minority in Myanmar, Jaivet Ealom fled the country in 2013 and travelled across three continents in search of asylum surviving a near-drowning and several detentions along the way</div> </div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>As a teenager in Myanmar, <strong>Jaivet Ealom</strong> says he could hardly have imagined one day graduating from the 91勛圖 with a double major in economics and political science.</p> <p>Not in my wildest dreams, he says, noting that hes now taking steps to bring everything Ive gained and learned to help others who are suffering around the world.</p> <p>Ealoms incredible journey to 91勛圖s Convocation Hall began in 2013 with <a href="https://magazine.utoronto.ca/people/students/journey-to-freedom-refugee-jaivet-ealom/" target="_blank">a harrowing escape from the Southeast Asian country</a> where, as a member of the persecuted Rohingya minority, he faced systemic discrimination and was denied citizenship rights.</p> <p>He left everything he knew behind, travelling through six countries and across three continents in search of asylum and surviving a near-drowning and multiple detentions along the way.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-06/820A8092-crop.jpg?itok=jHNz9Zph" width="750" height="500" alt="Jaivet waves to the camera before entering Convocation Hall" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Lisa Lighbourn)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Arriving in Canada in 2017, Ealom later began studies in 91勛圖s Faculty of Arts &amp; Science as a member of University College. He also co-founded the <a href="https://www.rohingyacentre.ca/" target="_blank">Rohingya Centre of Canada</a> and a refugee-focused non-profit called <a href="https://www.northernlightscanada.net/" target="_blank">Northern Lights Canada</a>, is a member of the Refugee Advisory Network of Canada and has attended forums for the UN Refugee Agency on resettlement.</p> <p>Amid his advocacy work, he also found time to write his first book:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/708309/escape-from-manus-prison-by-jaivet-ealom/9780735245198" target="_blank"><em>Escape from Manus Prison: One Mans Daring Quest for Freedom</em></a>, detailing his triumphant journey.</p> <p>As he crossed the stage inside Convocation Hall last week, Ealom says a sense of relief washed over him the closing of one chapter and beginning of another.</p> <p>He says his time at 91勛圖 has helped him make sense of his tumultuous journey and define his goals for the future.</p> <p>I only understood the symptoms of the problem because I have been the one on the suffering side, Ealom says, adding that he initially viewed the issue purely as a humanitarian one.</p> <p>Academia helped me understand that its also a political problem and the refugees are a result of policies and discriminatory law.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-06/820A8263-crop.jpg?itok=G1YJ1lln" width="750" height="500" alt="Jaivet crosses the stage during convocation " class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Lisa Lightbourn)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>After graduation, Ealom plans to dive into his policy work and advocate for representation of the Rohingya&nbsp;people in Myanmars politics following decades of persecution and disfranchisement. &nbsp;</p> <p>He is currently working with a group of about 40 to form the Rohingya Consultative Council, which is hoping to feed into the National Unity Consultative Council an advisory body to the National Unity Government of Myanmar.</p> <p>The Rohingya are the only group who dont have a representative body there, says Ealom, adding that through the Rohingya Consultative Council he hopes to achieve two goals: have a seat at the table; and define and build capacity for who sits in that seat.</p> <p>He says he feels a sense of responsibility to use his privilege and his 91勛圖 education to do what other members of his community may not be able to do on their own: achieve equality and justice for the Rohingya community in Myanmar. &nbsp;</p> <div class="align-center"> <div class="field field--name-field-media-oembed-video field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item"><iframe src="/media/oembed?url=https%3A//www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3DFeQUcSLWxDA&amp;max_width=0&amp;max_height=0&amp;hash=dZW8Jnlx3vEKAE9MfyVMghVuiSPNnRRLWHIgIoiaPBg" width="200" height="113" class="media-oembed-content" loading="eager" title="Journey to Freedom: Jaivet Ealom"></iframe> </div> </div> <h3>&nbsp;</h3> <h3><a href="https://magazine.utoronto.ca/people/students/journey-to-freedom-refugee-jaivet-ealom/">Read more about Jaivet Ealom in 91勛圖 Magazine</a></h3> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-home-page-banner field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News home page banner</div> <div class="field__item">On</div> </div> Mon, 24 Jun 2024 14:05:45 +0000 mattimar 308288 at Philanthropists, volunteers and dedicated alumni, Brian and Joannah Lawson receive 91勛圖 honorary degrees /news/philanthropists-volunteers-and-dedicated-alumni-brian-and-joannah-lawson-receive-u-t-honorary <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Philanthropists, volunteers and dedicated alumni, Brian and Joannah Lawson receive 91勛圖 honorary degrees&nbsp;</span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>Christopher.Sorensen</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2024-06-21T16:29:02-04:00" title="Friday, June 21, 2024 - 16:29" class="datetime">Fri, 06/21/2024 - 16:29</time> </span> <div class="field field--name-field-youtube field--type-youtube field--label-hidden field__item"><figure class="youtube-container"> <iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RHWwMV8qAGI?wmode=opaque" width="450" height="315" id="youtube-field-player" class="youtube-field-player" title="Embedded video for Philanthropists, volunteers and dedicated alumni, Brian and Joannah Lawson receive 91勛圖 honorary degrees&nbsp;" aria-label="Embedded video for Philanthropists, volunteers and dedicated alumni, Brian and Joannah Lawson receive 91勛圖 honorary degrees&nbsp;: https://www.youtube.com/embed/RHWwMV8qAGI?wmode=opaque" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> </figure> </div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-cutline-long field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cutline</div> <div class="field__item"><p><em>(image by Lisa Sakulensky)</em></p> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-author-reporters field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/authors-reporters/scott-anderson" hreflang="en">Scott Anderson</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-topic field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Topic</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/topics/our-community" hreflang="en">Our Community</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/convocation-2024" hreflang="en">Convocation 2024</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/joannah-brian-lawson-centre-child-nutrition" hreflang="en">Joannah &amp; Brian Lawson Centre for Child Nutrition</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/alumni" hreflang="en">Alumni</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/faculty-arts-science" hreflang="en">Faculty of Arts &amp; Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/honorary-degree" hreflang="en">Honorary Degree</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/trinity-college" hreflang="en">Trinity College</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/university-college" hreflang="en">University College</a></div> </div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Together, they have inspired countless others with their thoughtful leadership and generous spirit. And as donors, they like to think ahead. With an eye on future generations,&nbsp;<strong>Joannah</strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Brian&nbsp;Lawson</strong>&nbsp;have made climate change and child nutrition central to their philanthropy, including at the 91勛圖.</p> <p>Today, for their outstanding service to the university as supporters, ambassadors and thoughtful advisers, and for their commitment to making a positive difference in everything they do, the Lawsons will each&nbsp;receive a&nbsp;Doctor of Laws,&nbsp;<em>honoris causa</em>, from 91勛圖.</p> <p>Raised in Toronto, Brian attended 91勛圖, earning a bachelor of arts degree in 1982, with an emphasis on economics and computer science. After graduation, he joined Touche Ross (now Deloitte) and decided to study accounting, becoming a chartered accountant in 1985.</p> <p>Joannah, who also grew up in Toronto, completed a masters degree in industrial relations at 91勛圖 in 1989.&nbsp;</p> <p>Brian joined Brookfield, an investment firm, in 1988 and soon moved into senior roles, including chief financial officer of Brookfield Asset Management, which he held from 2002 to 2020. In 2013, he was selected as Canadas CFO of the year by Financial Executives International Canada, PricewaterhouseCoopers and Robert Half International.</p> <p>During Brians tenure as CFO, Brookfield evolved into a large, global investment firm, with assets under management of US$600 billion in 2020 and operations in more than 20 countries principally in Canada, the United States, Australia and Brazil.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-06/DZ2_3963-crop.jpg?itok=-8cgkvGx" width="750" height="500" alt="Joannah Lawson looks warmly at Brian Lawson as they stand on stage together" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Lisa Sakulensky)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Joannah, meanwhile, worked in change management in the high-tech sector&nbsp;before launching a second career&nbsp;as a nutritionist in 2012 via her own consulting business:&nbsp;Appetite for Change.</p> <p>She is also co-founder and president of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lawsonfoundation.ca/" target="_blank">Brian and Joannah Lawson Family Foundation</a>, which collaborates with other philanthropic foundations, not-for-profits, universities and think tanks to make food systems around the world healthier and more sustainable. The couple created the foundation in 2008 to advance two causes they believe in: addressing climate change and promoting healthy dietary patterns.&nbsp;Joannah has since shifted her focus to leading the foundation.</p> <p>Our particular emphasis is on supporting and sponsoring initiatives that improve the health and well-being of our communities [and] the environment, Brian&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/partners/advpwc0314/a-history-of-achievement/article17352145/" target="_blank">told the&nbsp;<em>Globe and Mail</em>&nbsp;in 2014</a>.&nbsp;</p> <p><a href="https://defygravitycampaign.utoronto.ca/news-and-stories/the-lawsons-landmark-10-million-gift-to-trinity-college-supports-integrated-sustainability-initiative/">In an interview with 91勛圖</a>, Joannah drew a connection between healthy food and sustainability, noting that nutrient-empty foods take a heavy toll on the planet.</p> <p>These concerns are reflected in how the couple has supported 91勛圖 philanthropically, with&nbsp;significant donations to establish the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trinity.utoronto.ca/lawson-centre-for-sustainability/ity&amp;ie=UTF-8&amp;oe=UTF-8">Lawson Centre for Sustainability</a>&nbsp;at Trinity College and the&nbsp;<a href="https://childnutrition.utoronto.ca/">Joannah and Brian Lawson Centre for Child Nutrition</a>&nbsp;at the Temerty Faculty of Medicine.&nbsp;</p> <p>They view their focus on child nutrition as strategic, adding that a persons first few years is a critical window for lifelong health. If you start changing things in childhood, you have the greatest opportunity to have a bigger impact on a persons life, Joannah&nbsp;<a href="https://temertymedicine.utoronto.ca/news/building-vision-improve-child-nutrition">told the Temerty Faculty of Medicine in 2017</a>. Its going further upstream to get to the root of the problem.</p> <p>Its an inflection point for parents too, Brian said in the same interview. Parents often start trying to eat healthier when kids come along, so focusing on children benefits the whole family.</p> <p>Ultimately, Joannah said, the number one thing were doing is setting out to prevent chronic disease. If you prevent chronic disease, you reduce suffering, improve quality of life and improve economic outcomes. Its a win-win-win.</p> <p>Both Brian and Joannah have volunteered extensively with 91勛圖.&nbsp;Brian is chancellor of Trinity College, co-chair of the Defy Gravity Campaign and a&nbsp;past chair of 91勛圖s Governing Council.&nbsp;Joannah&nbsp;is a past member of the Trinity College Board of Trustees and continues to serve as an adviser to the college.&nbsp;Together, they have&nbsp;served as co-chairs of the campaign cabinet at 91勛圖s Temerty Faculty of Medicine and on the Boundless Campaign executive</p> <p>Both have received&nbsp;the universitys Arbor Award for volunteer service, and honorary doctorates from Trinity College.</p> <p>In his speech today, Brian urged graduates of Trinity and University colleges to focus their efforts on opportunities that tick three boxes: what theyre good at, what theyre passionate about and where they can make a difference. Think of how you want the world to be and exemplify that yourself, he said. People around you will notice. And that might be the greatest impact of all.</p> <p>In her speech, Joannah encouraged graduates to draw inspiration from others. Find out who is already working on the issues you care about most, and look for ways to contribute, either directly by working with them or indirectly by building on their work.&nbsp;</p> <p>And if no one else is working on the issue?&nbsp;&nbsp;Lead the way.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-home-page-banner field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News home page banner</div> <div class="field__item">Off</div> </div> Fri, 21 Jun 2024 20:29:02 +0000 Christopher.Sorensen 308186 at 16-year-old physics grad completes incredible journey at 91勛圖 /news/16-year-old-physics-grad-completes-incredible-journey-u-t <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">16-year-old physics grad completes incredible journey at 91勛圖</span> <div class="field field--name-field-featured-picture field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="eager" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2024-06/Daniel_1008-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=74Rft4PP 370w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_740/public/2024-06/Daniel_1008-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=-WLPpN9B 740w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_1110/public/2024-06/Daniel_1008-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=4oaDyZEO 1110w" sizes="(min-width:1200px) 1110px, (max-width: 1199px) 80vw, (max-width: 767px) 90vw, (max-width: 575px) 95vw" width="740" height="494" src="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2024-06/Daniel_1008-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=74Rft4PP" alt="&quot;&quot;"> </div> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>Christopher.Sorensen</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2024-06-03T11:33:09-04:00" title="Monday, June 3, 2024 - 11:33" class="datetime">Mon, 06/03/2024 - 11:33</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-cutline-long field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cutline</div> <div class="field__item"><p><em>Daniel Honciuc Menendez, 16, is the youngest to graduate from the Faculty of Arts &amp; Science, 91勛圖 Scarborough or U of Mississauga since at least 1979&nbsp;(photo by Diana Tyszko)</em></p> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-author-reporters field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/authors-reporters/chris-sasaki" hreflang="en">Chris Sasaki</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-topic field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Topic</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/topics/our-community" hreflang="en">Our Community</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/convocation-2024" hreflang="en">Convocation 2024</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/faculty-arts-science" hreflang="en">Faculty of Arts &amp; Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/international-students" hreflang="en">International Students</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/physics" hreflang="en">Physics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/university-college" hreflang="en">University College</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-subheadline field--type-string-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Subheadline</div> <div class="field__item">Daniel Honciuc Menendez carried out research on dark matter detection and theoretical quantum optics</div> </div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><strong>Daniel Honciuc Menendez</strong> was 11 years old when he took part in a summer program in theoretical physics at the Perimeter Institute in Waterloo, Ont., in 2019.</p> <p>Id known for a long time that I wanted a career in physics. But it was in this program that I learned for sure that this was what I wanted to do with my life, says Honciuc Menendez, who is Ecuadorean and was living in the country's capital Quito at the time.</p> <p>The trip was his first visit to Canada and made a big impression. I liked the openness of the people and the diversity. So I decided that when I applied to universities, I would make sure to apply to universities in Canada.</p> <p>After completing high school at age 12, Honciuc Menendez received offers of admission from 12 post-secondary institutions in Canada, the U.S. and Ecuador. He chose the 91勛圖, where he received an <a href="https://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/current/faculty-registrar/awards-scholarships#admission-awards-accordion-10">International Scholars Award</a>, and began his undergraduate studies as a member of University College.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2024-06/NASA-Honciuc-Menendez-inside-crop.jpg" width="300" height="400" alt="&quot;&quot;"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>Honciuc Menendez at 11 years old at the launch of one of his experiments on a rocket with the NASA Cubes in Space program at&nbsp;the Wallops Flight Facility (photo courtesy Daniel Honciuc Menendez)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Now 16 years old, Honciuc Menendez is graduating with a specialist in physics and a major in mathematics with high distinction. Hes the youngest to graduate from the Faculty of Arts &amp; Science, 91勛圖 Scarborough or 91勛圖 Mississauga since at least 1979, the year the university began tracking such data.</p> <p>Im proud and excited to be graduating, he says. Its the culmination of four years of hard work, research and volunteer experiences. Im really looking forward to convocation.</p> <p>Faculty of Arts &amp; Science writer <strong>Chris Sasaki</strong> spoke to Honciuc Menendez before his convocation.</p> <hr> <p><strong>When did your interest in science begin?</strong></p> <p>I started reading at an early age. When I was very young, my mother and I moved often to different countries because of her career. During this time, I was surrounded by a variety of books, including math books, puzzle books, encyclopedias and atlases. They became my early companions and mentors. Also, even before starting school, I was captivated by educational videos, websites and apps about math, physics, chemistry and other subjects. Then, at 4 years old, while living in the U.K., I gained early entrance into grade school and became interested in programming and robotics. I attended every science festival I could. It became clear to me that I wanted to pursue a life in the sciences.</p> <p><strong>What was your early education like?</strong></p> <p>Early entrance into grade school in the U.K. was my first grade-skip. When I was six years old, we moved back to Ecuador and I wanted to learn more challenging material during my classes. After meetings with my new school, I was encouraged to apply to the Johns Hopkins University (JHU)&nbsp;Centre for Talented Youth. Upon passing the entrance tests, I was admitted into the program, which allowed me to take advanced courses.</p> <p>At nine years old, I skipped another grade and started auditing&nbsp;International Baccalaureate&nbsp;(IB) diploma classes in physics and music. Then, when I was 10 years old, I also took the SAT and with its results, I was allowed to skip four more grades to 11th grade and was also able to join other programs like JHUs Study of Exceptional Talent. From there, I took a full IB diploma program and graduated from high school at 12 years old.</p> <p><strong>What research projects were you able to take part in at 91勛圖?</strong></p> <p>The first was with&nbsp;Professor <strong>Miriam Diamond&nbsp;</strong>in dark matter detection with the Super Cryogenic Dark Matter Search experiment at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.snolab.ca/">SNOLAB</a>, an underground research facility near Sudbury for neutrino and dark matter studies. I developed and tested dark matter detector simulations and conducted data analysis on remote servers.</p> <p>The second was in theoretical quantum optics with&nbsp;Professor <strong>John Sipe</strong>&nbsp;at the&nbsp;<a href="https://cqiqc.physics.utoronto.ca/">Centre for Quantum Information &amp; Quantum Control</a>, in which I investigated the theoretical optical response for waveguide-quantum dot systems that could be used as the basis for optical quantum computers.</p> <p>Throughout both experiences, the collaborative and inclusive spirit of the physics community really inspired me. The professors and researchers provided invaluable mentorship to me and have significantly shaped my decision to pursue a physics research career involving high-energy physics and quantum information.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2024-06/Hart-House-Chamber-Strings-inside-crop.jpg" width="300" height="450" alt="&quot;&quot;"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>Honciuc Menendez pursued his interest in music with the&nbsp;<a href="https://hhchamberstrings.sa.utoronto.ca/">Hart House Chamber Strings</a>&nbsp;ensemble (photo courtesy Daniel Honciuc Menendez)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p><strong>What field are you most interested in now?</strong></p> <p>Im interested in quantum information and high-energy physics. Quantum information is a unique field that has applications to various disciplines, since quantum computers can solve various problems that classical computers cannot. I want to specialize in quantum algorithms since theyre essential to realizing the potential of quantum information in its applications, including in my other field of interest, high-energy physics. The more I learn about quantum information's capabilities and its synergy with high-energy physics, the more I realize the significant impact these technologies could have on our understanding of the universe and on advancing computational sciences.</p> <p><strong>What are your plans after graduation?</strong></p> <p>I was honored to receive a full scholarship from the European Union to pursue a master's of science in physics with a concentration in quantum science and technology. The program will take place over two years at the Sapienza University of Rome in Italy, then at Universit矇 Paris-Saclay in France, and lastly at 91勛圖. Ill be taking courses and developing my career in quantum technology in academia and industry, and exploring the interdisciplinary possibilities of the quantum science landscape, including in high-energy physics, medicine, cybersecurity and finance. Later, I want to pursue a PhD in physics where I can go deeper into the intersection between quantum information and high-energy physics.</p> <p><strong>What are your thoughts as you look back at the past four years?</strong></p> <p>Throughout these years, the support from my friends, professors and mentors at 91勛圖, and the resources provided by University College and 91勛圖s Accessibility Services have been invaluable and have helped me navigate the complexities of academic life and the personal challenges of being a young student. Plus, all of this would not have been possible without the unconditional support from my mother, a single mom who has been my constant source of strength and inspiration, and who accompanied me as I pursued my studies in Canada.</p> <p>These past four years have been transformative for me not just academically but also personally and were filled with challenges, achievements and growth. Its been an incredible journey, and I step forward with a heart full of gratitude for the 91勛圖 community, ready for the next chapter of my life.</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-home-page-banner field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News home page banner</div> <div class="field__item">Off</div> </div> Mon, 03 Jun 2024 15:33:09 +0000 Christopher.Sorensen 308058 at Classics students whip up a taste of ancient history /news/classics-students-whip-taste-ancient-history <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Classics students whip up a taste of ancient history</span> <div class="field field--name-field-featured-picture field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="eager" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2024-01/AFD-Winter-2024-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=3cGUbiuD 370w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_740/public/2024-01/AFD-Winter-2024-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=6_MzM-St 740w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_1110/public/2024-01/AFD-Winter-2024-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=mS1olzZ_ 1110w" sizes="(min-width:1200px) 1110px, (max-width: 1199px) 80vw, (max-width: 767px) 90vw, (max-width: 575px) 95vw" width="740" height="494" src="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2024-01/AFD-Winter-2024-crop.jpg?h=81d682ee&amp;itok=3cGUbiuD" alt="plate filled with various foods at the event"> </div> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>Christopher.Sorensen</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2024-01-30T08:43:52-05:00" title="Tuesday, January 30, 2024 - 08:43" class="datetime">Tue, 01/30/2024 - 08:43</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-cutline-long field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cutline</div> <div class="field__item"><p><em>Students and professors ate some of the same foods ancient Greeks and Romans served at dinners thousands of years ago (photo by Teodora Mladin)</em></p> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-author-reporters field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/authors-reporters/sean-mcneely" hreflang="en">Sean McNeely</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-topic field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Topic</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/topics/our-community" hreflang="en">Our Community</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/classics" hreflang="en">Classics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/faculty-arts-science" hreflang="en">Faculty of Arts &amp; Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/food" hreflang="en">Food</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/humanities" hreflang="en">Humanities</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/trinity-college" hreflang="en">Trinity College</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/university-college" hreflang="en">University College</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/victoria-college" hreflang="en">Victoria College</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-subheadline field--type-string-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Subheadline</div> <div class="field__item">From "Parthian chicken" to melitoutta, the flavours of ancient Greece and Rome took centre stage on Ancient Food Day helping to connect students to the civilizations they study </div> </div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>It was a feast fit for the gods.</p> <p>Professors, graduate and undergraduate students enjoyed some of the same foods ancient Greeks and Romans served at dinners thousands of years ago at&nbsp;<a href="https://classu.sa.utoronto.ca/2022/08/27/ancient-food-day/">Ancient Food Day</a>, organized by the <a href="https://classu.sa.utoronto.ca/">Classics Students Union</a>.</p> <p>Ancient Food Day is more than just a culinary festivity, says <strong>Teodora Mladin</strong>, president of the student union and a sixth-year student with a double major in classical civilizations and French linguistics who is a member of&nbsp;Trinity College.</p> <p>Food is one of the primary ways we share and retain our cultures. So, by indulging in these recipes, we momentarily taste the traditions, stories and experiences of ancient peoples.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-01/AFD-Winter-2024-7-crop.jpg?itok=3IR1pRF2" width="750" height="501" alt="&quot;&quot;" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>The Classics Students' Union held its biannual Ancient Food Day&nbsp;event earlier this month (photo by Teodora Mladin)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Tasting those traditions included enjoying dishes such as: Parthian chicken, cooked with leeks, red wine, dried dates, garlic and cumin; and parsnip fries, cooked with olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, celery seed, rosemary, pepper and fish sauce. The events organizers said the dishes were very popular in 224 CE.</p> <p>A plate of asparagus, meanwhile, was prepared with marjoram, which, students said, tastes like smoked fish when mixed with coriander.</p> <p>There were also plenty of choices for those with a sweet tooth such as <em>enkrides</em> the ancient equivalent to Timbits. These fried cheese dough balls are cooked in olive oil and then covered in honey. Or there was <em>melitoutta,</em> which are honey cakes that resemble scones. Apparently, this was a dessert deceased souls would bring to the underworld.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-01/NEW---DSCF2256-crop.jpg?itok=TIxGXpSB" width="750" height="500" alt="&quot;&quot;" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>Asparagus was prepared with spices to give it a fishy flavour (photo by Sean McNeely)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Attendees also enjoyed pear patina, frittatas made with boiled cored pears and prepared with eggs, honey, olive oil, grape juice and white wine, offering both savoury and sweet flavours.</p> <p>The dishes were washed down with beverages such as Nectar of the Gods a mango-nectar-based drink and a mulled pomegranate drink called Persephone in the Underworld. Inspired by the myth of Persephones abduction by Hades, its Greek description translates to fire burning at night, referring to its spiced quality as well as its dark, glittery colour.</p> <p>The event was the culmination of weeks of preparation that included searching for original recipes, translating them and then preparing dishes as true to the originals as possible. The group also created placards for each dish that contained the original Greek recipe, the English translation and fun facts.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-01/AFD-Winter-2024-6-crop.jpg?itok=L27bAivM" width="750" height="500" alt="&quot;&quot;" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>Each dish was accompanied by a placard&nbsp;with the original Greek recipe (photo by Teodora Mladin)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p><strong>Izzy Friesen</strong>, a fourth-year classics and classical civilizations student, says translating recipes was an enriching experience from both a language and history perspective.</p> <p>"Getting to translate recipes allowed me to engage with Latin in a different way, says Friesen, a member of&nbsp;Victoria College. It was particularly valuable for us to attempt our own translations and look for recipes that caught our eye. Its useful and exciting for language-learners but not necessarily something wed get to do in the classroom."</p> <p><strong>Madeleine Andrasic</strong>, a second-year student with a double major in classical languages and history, and a member of&nbsp;University College, also found translating the recipes to be rewarding.</p> <p>It really becomes evident that Greeks and Romans saw food in both similar and different ways to us, says&nbsp;Andrasic. So much cultural and environmental history can be revealed in these texts, [sparking] further questions about food availability and food preferences in the ancient world."</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-01/DSCF2263-crop.jpg?itok=0bZFPfwM" width="750" height="500" alt="&quot;&quot;" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>Pear patina sits next to an apricot dessert (photo by Sean McNeely)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>For <strong>Tessa Delaney-Girotti</strong>, a fourth-year student with a double major in classical civilizations and archeology, preparing the dishes strengthened her connection to ancient peoples.</p> <p>Its not only a unique experience to be able to eat the same kind of food as someone from thousands of years ago, but theres also something about cooking those recipes, putting yourself into their shoes, that brings to mind the everyday activities of their lives, says Delaney-Girotti, a member of University College who is vice-president of the student union.</p> <p>Most of the time we feel far removed from the people we read about, but this brings a whole new perspective.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2024-01/DSCF2270-crop.jpg?itok=9bGeD59L" width="750" height="500" alt="&quot;&quot;" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>A serving dish of Parthian chicken beside a tray of enkrides (photo by Sean McNeely)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Mladin, too, says gathering to share a meal is a timeless human experience and organizing and hosting Ancient Food Day further connected her to the cultures shes studying.</p> <p>She added that the Classics Students' Union has seen so much interest in the recipes that it intends to create an ancient recipe blog.</p> <p>The dishes we present are an emblem of history, a testament to the cultural exchanges, advancements and the ever-evolving human story, she says. We are reminded of the depth and breadth of the ancient civilizations that shaped the very focus of our department."</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-home-page-banner field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News home page banner</div> <div class="field__item">Off</div> </div> Tue, 30 Jan 2024 13:43:52 +0000 Christopher.Sorensen 305733 at 91勛圖 Faculty of Law hosts screening of film celebrating 'the supreme life of Rosalie Abella' /news/u-t-faculty-law-hosts-screening-film-celebrating-supreme-life-rosalie-abella <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">91勛圖 Faculty of Law hosts screening of film celebrating 'the supreme life of Rosalie Abella'</span> <div class="field field--name-field-featured-picture field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="eager" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2023-09/UofT91411_2023-02-07%20Rosalie%20Abella%20at%20Jackman%20Law_Polina%20Teif-23-lpr.JPG?h=afdc3185&amp;itok=zJSRMyEx 370w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_740/public/2023-09/UofT91411_2023-02-07%20Rosalie%20Abella%20at%20Jackman%20Law_Polina%20Teif-23-lpr.JPG?h=afdc3185&amp;itok=0Hh7r-0o 740w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_1110/public/2023-09/UofT91411_2023-02-07%20Rosalie%20Abella%20at%20Jackman%20Law_Polina%20Teif-23-lpr.JPG?h=afdc3185&amp;itok=MDF8DYNK 1110w" sizes="(min-width:1200px) 1110px, (max-width: 1199px) 80vw, (max-width: 767px) 90vw, (max-width: 575px) 95vw" width="740" height="494" src="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2023-09/UofT91411_2023-02-07%20Rosalie%20Abella%20at%20Jackman%20Law_Polina%20Teif-23-lpr.JPG?h=afdc3185&amp;itok=zJSRMyEx" alt="&quot;&quot;"> </div> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>Christopher.Sorensen</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2023-09-27T09:56:10-04:00" title="Wednesday, September 27, 2023 - 09:56" class="datetime">Wed, 09/27/2023 - 09:56</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-cutline-long field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cutline</div> <div class="field__item"><p><em>A</em>&nbsp;<em>91勛圖 alumna,&nbsp;Rosalie Abella was the first pregnant woman appointed to the judiciary in Canada, the first refugee appointed to the bench in Canada and the first Jewish woman appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada (photo by Polina Teif)</em></p> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-author-reporters field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/authors-reporters/nina-haikara" hreflang="en">Nina Haikara</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-topic field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Topic</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/topics/our-community" hreflang="en">Our Community</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/alumni" hreflang="en">Alumni</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/cinema-studies" hreflang="en">Cinema Studies</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/faculty-arts-science" hreflang="en">Faculty of Arts &amp; Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/faculty-law" hreflang="en">Faculty of Law</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/innis-college" hreflang="en">Innis College</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/university-college" hreflang="en">University College</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/woodsworth-college" hreflang="en">Woodsworth College</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-subheadline field--type-string-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Subheadline</div> <div class="field__item">"Rosie has been motivated by the pursuit of justice and a steadfast, infectious belief in the power of individuals, institutions and the law to be forces for the good"</div> </div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Equal rights champion. Innovator. Icon.</p> <p>For her many accomplishments, retired Supreme Court of Canada justice&nbsp;<strong>Rosalie Silberman Abella</strong>, a dual graduate of the 91勛圖s University College and the Faculty of Law, is the focus of a new documentary about her life,&nbsp;<em>Without Precedent: The Supreme Life of Rosalie Abella</em>.</p> <p>91勛圖 Law will host <a href="https://www.law.utoronto.ca/events/without-precedent-supreme-life-rosalie-abella">a&nbsp;special screening of the film Thursday,</a> which had its&nbsp;<a href="https://hotdocs.ca/archive/festival/2023/without-precedent" target="_blank">debut premier at Hot Docs International Film Festival</a>&nbsp;this spring.&nbsp;The event will be held at the Jackman Law Building in the room that honours Abella: The Rosalie Silberman Abella Moot Court Room.</p> <div class="align-left"> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2023-09/Without-Precedent--crop.jpg" width="300" height="442" alt="Poster for film Without Precedent"> </div> </div> <p>Rosie has been motivated by the pursuit of justice and a steadfast, infectious belief in the power of individuals, institutions and the law to be forces for the good, says <a href="https://www.provost.utoronto.ca/awards-funding/university-professors/">University Professor</a>&nbsp;<strong>Jutta Brunn矇e</strong>, dean of the Faculty of Law and James Marshall Tory Deans Chair. She's inspired generations of students and young lawyers.</p> <p>Abellas is an especially storied legal career.</p> <p>Her father graduated with masters degree in law from Jagiellonian University in Krak籀w, Poland, but war broke out before he was ever able to practise. Her parents were married on Sept. 3, 1939 the day Britain declared war on Germany following the invasion of Poland and both survived several years in different concentration camps during the Holocaust.</p> <p>Abella was born after the war on July 1, 1946 in a displaced persons camp in Stuttgart, Germany. The family came to Canada as Jewish refugees in 1950. But as a non-citizen, her father could not practise law.</p> <p>It's one of my earliest memories in Canada, of his coming home and saying, 'I can't be a lawyer here. I remember saying Then I'm going to be a lawyer I had no idea what it meant. But I was four years old and could see how disappointed he was, she told a 91勛圖 audience in 2019&nbsp;<a href="/news/justice-rosalie-abella-receives-u-t-alumni-award-unwavering-commitment-human-rights-and">when she received 91勛圖s Rose Wolfe Distinguished Alumni Award</a>.</p> <p>I just stayed on that course. I was going to be what he couldn't be. What was amazing was that he never complained. Neither of my parents or grandmother ever complained. They thought that this is a country of opportunities, but you have to make them happen.</p> <p>True to her vow, Abella graduated from 91勛圖 Law in 1970. She was one of only seven women in a class of 150 law students.</p> <p>She became the first pregnant woman appointed to the judiciary in Canada at age 29. She was also the first refugee appointed to the bench in Canada, as well the first Jewish woman appointed to Canadas Supreme Court.</p> <p>Among her many contributions to legal thought and jurisprudence, Abella created the term and concept of employment equity when she was the sole commissioner of the 1984 federal Royal Commission on Equality in Employment. Her definition of equality was adopted by the Supreme Court of Canada in its first decision under Section 15 of the&nbsp;Charter of Rights and Freedoms.</p> <p>Our generation revolutionized how the law worked for people, says Abella in&nbsp;<em>Without Precedent</em>.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2023-09/Without%20Precedent_4.jpg?itok=TGFqvqTh" width="750" height="422" alt="still from the film Without Precedent shows Rosalie Abella at home with her husband" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>Rosalie Abella with her late husband Irving Abella in a still from the film (image courtesy of Melbar Entertainment Group)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Following the screening, Abella, the distinguished jurist-in-residence at 91勛圖 Law who received an honorary degree from the university in 1990, will be joined in conversation with the award-winning filmmakers of&nbsp;Melbar Entertainment Group.</p> <p>"In a long career of documenting the famous and the infamous, the rare opportunity to focus on an individual with the insight, humanity and power to change history and lives was one of the great highlights of my career," says director and producer,&nbsp;<strong>Barry Avrich</strong>, a graduate of Woodsworth College whose previous credits include&nbsp;<em>Prosecuting Evil: The Extraordinary World of Ben Ferencz</em>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<em>David Foster: Off the Record</em>.</p> <p>"This film is a testament of an infinitely inspiring journey that will be remembered for generations."</p> <p>Producer&nbsp;<strong>Mark Selby</strong>,&nbsp;a graduate of the cinema studies program in the Faculty of Arts &amp; Science, says he's thrilled to have the documentary screened at 91勛圖.</p> <p>Canada does not make celebrities out of its Supreme Court justices, but if ever there was someone who should be renowned across the country for her incomparable achievements and devotion to helping people, its Rosalie Abella, Selby said.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-home-page-banner field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News home page banner</div> <div class="field__item">Off</div> </div> Wed, 27 Sep 2023 13:56:10 +0000 Christopher.Sorensen 303236 at In photos: Students settle into their new homes across 91勛圖's three campuses /news/photos-students-settle-their-new-homes-across-u-t-s-three-campuses <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">In photos: Students settle into their new homes across 91勛圖's three campuses</span> <div class="field field--name-field-featured-picture field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="eager" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2023-09/tri-campus-v3.jpg?h=4d6a39ba&amp;itok=VDLEJOpP 370w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_740/public/2023-09/tri-campus-v3.jpg?h=4d6a39ba&amp;itok=a1aDtBSf 740w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_1110/public/2023-09/tri-campus-v3.jpg?h=4d6a39ba&amp;itok=JrmlvZ7O 1110w" sizes="(min-width:1200px) 1110px, (max-width: 1199px) 80vw, (max-width: 767px) 90vw, (max-width: 575px) 95vw" width="740" height="494" src="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2023-09/tri-campus-v3.jpg?h=4d6a39ba&amp;itok=VDLEJOpP" alt="various photos of students moving onto the 91勛圖 campus"> </div> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>bresgead</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2023-09-05T17:56:14-04:00" title="Tuesday, September 5, 2023 - 17:56" class="datetime">Tue, 09/05/2023 - 17:56</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-cutline-long field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cutline</div> <div class="field__item"><p><em>(photos by Don Campbell, left, and Nick Iwanyshyn, centre and right)&nbsp;</em></p> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-author-reporters field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/authors-reporters/adina-bresge" hreflang="en">Adina Bresge</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-secondary-author-reporter field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/authors-reporters/don-campbell" hreflang="en">Don Campbell</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/authors-reporters/nick-iwanyshyn" hreflang="en">Nick Iwanyshyn</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-topic field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Topic</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/topics/our-community" hreflang="en">Our Community</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/back-school-2023" hreflang="en">Back to School 2023</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/utogether" hreflang="en">UTogether</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/innis-college" hreflang="en">Innis College</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/st-george" hreflang="en">St. George</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/trinity-college" hreflang="en">Trinity College</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/u-t-mississauga" hreflang="en">91勛圖 Mississauga</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/u-t-scarborough" hreflang="en">91勛圖 Scarborough</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/undergraduate-students" hreflang="en">Undergraduate Students</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/university-college" hreflang="en">University College</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-subheadline field--type-string-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Subheadline</div> <div class="field__item">From instant ramen noodles to lengthy goodbyes, it was a busy and emotional Labour Day weekend 2023 at 91勛圖 residences </div> </div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Incoming students from across Canada and around the world made the 91勛圖 their home over Labour Day weekend, pulling up to their residences across the three campuses with boxes of belongings, preferred snacks and plush creature comforts in tow.</p> <p>Returning students and residential staff welcomed 91勛圖s&nbsp;newest community members with enthusiastic cheers and a helping hand in hauling suitcases, boxes and appliances through the hallways and to their rooms.</p> <p>Parents ticked off items on their to-do lists as they prepared to say goodbye, some admitting they were saving their tears for the trip home, while siblings and friends helped figure out how to decorate new quarters.</p> <p>First-year students, meanwhile, settled into their surroundings and looked forward to writing an important new chapter in their lives.</p> <p>Interactive Digital Producer<strong> Nick Iwanyshyn</strong> and Staff Reporters <strong>Adina Bresge</strong> and&nbsp;<strong>Don Campbell</strong> were on hand to capture the emotions and excitement of move-in day in photos at each of the three campuses.</p> <hr> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2023-09/0903UTSGMoveInDay016-crop.jpg?itok=h4H1XbJ_" width="750" height="500" alt="&quot;&quot;" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>New arrivals at University College on the St. George campus were greeted with signs and cheers as they unloaded their cars outside Morrison Hall.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2023-09/0902UTMMoveInDay005-crop_0.jpg?itok=lsXOE2hU" width="750" height="500" alt="&quot;&quot;" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Like many students, 91勛圖 Mississaugas <strong>Diore Thorpe</strong> stocked her dorm room with all the essentials&nbsp; including a ready supply of instant ramen.&nbsp;</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2023-09/0903UTSGMoveInDay009-crop.jpg?itok=Sa0wWMCR" width="750" height="500" alt="&quot;&quot;" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p><strong>Crystal Zhang</strong>, a first-year student at Trinity College, says she felt mildly terrified but very excited about living on her own for the first time.</p> <p>While shes comfortable doing her own laundry, shes less confident in her cooking skills. Im glad I got a meal plan, said Zhang, who is beginning her studies in Rotman Commerce.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2023-09/_DSC2293-crop.jpg?itok=esgpMRtS" width="750" height="500" alt="&quot;&quot;" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Don Campbell)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Hundreds of students moved in to 91勛圖 Scarboroughs new sustainable student residence, Harmony Commons, <a href="https://utsc.utoronto.ca/news-events/our-community/place-where-friendships-are-forged-u-t-scarborough-breaks-ground-new-750-bed">which is built to passive house standard</a> a type of building designed for energy-efficient heating and cooling.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2023-09/0903UTSGMoveInDay008-crop.jpg?itok=ot4VJEqr" width="750" height="500" alt="a male student moves into his dorm room at the 91勛圖" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p><strong>Sahil Basra</strong>, who is studying computer science, battled the heat as he lugged his desktop and monitor up to his room. Im exhausted, Basra said, bracing himself for several more trips up and down the stairs.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2023-09/0903UTSGMoveInDay015-crop.jpg?itok=hTU99XSO" width="750" height="500" alt="students carry their belongings to their dorms on the 91勛圖 St. George campus" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p><strong>Mya Thompson</strong> brought an armful of plushies a shark, a frog and a dinosaur to keep herself cozy at Innis College.</p> <p>While the life sciences student was thrilled to be in the big city, her mother admitted that she was holding back tears for the drive back to Port Dover, Ont. Im excited for her, though, to chase her dream, Eva Thompson said.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2023-09/0U1A7311-crop.jpg?itok=00KXnCL8" width="750" height="500" alt="&quot;&quot;" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>photo by Don Campbell)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Luggage carts helped with the heavy lifting as students got to know one another at 91勛圖 Scarborough.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2023-09/0902UTMMoveInDay014-crop.jpg?itok=Qh7hsrna" width="750" height="500" alt="&quot;&quot;" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>&nbsp;(photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Staff and volunteers at 91勛圖 Mississaugas Erindale Hall residence ferried students&nbsp;belongings to their rooms in giant plastic bins.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-center"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/scale_image_750_width_/public/2023-09/0903UTSGMoveInDay007-crop.jpg?itok=ieDCCDOU" width="750" height="500" alt="&quot;&quot;" class="image-style-scale-image-750-width-"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>(photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p><strong>Esm矇 L. Wilson</strong>s parents flew in from San Francisco to get her set up in her room. While she was ready for classes to begin, Wilson felt less prepared for the coming Canadian winter. I have no idea what kind of jackets Ill need, she said. Ill probably have to buy a lot of new things.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-home-page-banner field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News home page banner</div> <div class="field__item">Off</div> </div> Tue, 05 Sep 2023 21:56:14 +0000 bresgead 302757 at From soldier to scribe: PhD student Zak Jones explores veterans' narratives in literature /news/author-and-phd-student-zak-jones-explores-veterans-narratives-in-literature <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">From soldier to scribe: PhD student Zak Jones explores veterans' narratives in literature</span> <div class="field field--name-field-featured-picture field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="eager" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2023-08/Zak-Jones---B-W-crop.jpg?h=afdc3185&amp;itok=hSGeKfKu 370w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_740/public/2023-08/Zak-Jones---B-W-crop.jpg?h=afdc3185&amp;itok=QoiSkZ_b 740w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_1110/public/2023-08/Zak-Jones---B-W-crop.jpg?h=afdc3185&amp;itok=lnjjKM-b 1110w" sizes="(min-width:1200px) 1110px, (max-width: 1199px) 80vw, (max-width: 767px) 90vw, (max-width: 575px) 95vw" width="740" height="494" src="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2023-08/Zak-Jones---B-W-crop.jpg?h=afdc3185&amp;itok=hSGeKfKu" alt="Zak Jones"> </div> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>siddiq22</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2023-08-08T09:49:52-04:00" title="Tuesday, August 8, 2023 - 09:49" class="datetime">Tue, 08/08/2023 - 09:49</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-cutline-long field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cutline</div> <div class="field__item"><p><em>Zak Jones is being recognized for his writing, including recently winning the&nbsp;2023 RBC Bronwen Wallace Award (supplied image)</em></p> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-author-reporters field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/authors-reporters/sean-mcneely" hreflang="en">Sean McNeely</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-topic field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Topic</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/topics/our-community" hreflang="en">Our Community</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/robarts-library" hreflang="en">Robarts Library</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/english" hreflang="en">English</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/faculty-arts-science" hreflang="en">Faculty of Arts &amp; Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/graduate-students" hreflang="en">Graduate Students</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/military" hreflang="en">Military</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/university-college" hreflang="en">University College</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/woodsworth-college" hreflang="en">Woodsworth College</a></div> </div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>When <a href="https://www.zakjones.org/"><strong>Zak Jones</strong></a> was young, his mother encouraged him to carry around a notebook and write down any interesting observations.</p> <p>I've kept that practice going throughout my adult life, Jones says.</p> <p>Capturing those thoughts has paid off for the 91勛圖 PhD candidate. Its led to two previous degrees at 91勛圖, a poetry collection, a book of short stories and several writing awards&nbsp; including the <a href="https://www.writerstrust.com/awards/rbc-bronwen-wallace-award-for-emerging-writers/">2023 RBC Bronwen Wallace Award</a> for short fiction for his short story <a href="https://writers-trust.cdn.prismic.io/writers-trust/486c88f4-8965-4c10-a020-fdab7ee95473_Short+Fiction_So+Much+More+To+Say_Zak+Jones_send+to+Apple.pdf">So Much More to Say.</a> The award celebrates emerging Canadian writers in the fields of poetry and short fiction.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2023-08/Zak-in-Dress-Greens---2010-crop.jpg" width="300" height="359" alt> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>Zak Jones in his dressed greens military uniform<br> in 2010 (supplied image)</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Winning this award was a vote of confidence, says Jones, whose story is set in a flooding South Carolina cemetery and delves into the thoughts of a young gravedigger who has the gruesome task of reburying the bloated bodies that have risen to the surface after heavy rains.</p> <p>I'm feeling much more secure in my self-conception as an artist. Now, when I tell people I'm a writer, I'm not half-joking.</p> <p>Jones also recently received the <a href="https://www.uc.utoronto.ca/writing-award-winners">Norma Epstein Foundation Award</a> in Creative Writing part of University Colleges writing awards&nbsp; for another short story titled Love Handles.</p> <p>For Jones, these are satisfying accomplishments especially considering there was a time when he wasnt sure if he would even finish high school.</p> <p>Jones path to 91勛圖 was unconventional before coming to university, he served in the U.S military.</p> <p>My grandfather, my dad and all of his brothers were in the army, Jones says. It was one of those things that was on the table for my brother and I since we were little boys.</p> <p>The brothers enlisted soon after they both completed high school. They trained together to become army medics at bases around the U.S. but in a strange twist, were never sent overseas because they happened to be in the same unit as Chelsea Manning, who made international headlines in 2013 for violations of the U.S Espionage Act after sharing military and diplomatic documents on WikiLeaks.</p> <p>Thanks to Chelsea, my brother and I were spared a deployment, Jones says.</p> <p>While they trained, the brothers also took college classes online and Jones earned the equivalent of an associates degree from Columbia College in Missouri.</p> <p>From there, I learned how to write a paper and read for academic purposes, he says.</p> <p>Jones left the army and moved to Toronto in 2013 with hopes of attending 91勛圖&nbsp; but he didnt get accepted on his first try. Determined to get in, he enrolled in Woodsworth Colleges <a href="https://wdw.utoronto.ca/academic-bridging">Academic Bridging Program</a>, where he took a lone English course.</p> <p>I fell in love with English, he says. I fell in love with Robarts Library and the archives and just reading, so I ended up doing pretty well.</p> <p>Well enough, in fact, that he was accepted to 91勛圖 as a full-time student.</p> <p>After completing his undergraduate degree, Jones then set his sights on a masters in creative writing, writing <em>Fancy Gap&nbsp;</em> a&nbsp;novel about a family separated by illness and addiction in southern Appalachia&nbsp; as his thesis project.</p> <p>Outside of his studies, Jones also worked on a collection of poems, <a href="https://www.zakjones.org/projects"><em>I Come Up From The Earth</em></a>. Written from 2009 to 2021, the poems cover subjects such as his ethical concerns about serving in the army, the mental anguish surrounding his mothers second bout with breast cancer and the intense nostalgia experienced upon returning to his home in the South to visit her. <em>Tinderbox</em>, a cycle of poetry from that book, was selected as a finalist for the 2023 <a href="https://vallummag.com/zak-jones-vallum-chapbook-award-finalist/">Vallum Chapbook Poetry Award</a> from the Montreal-based Vallum Society for Education in Arts &amp; Letters.</p> <p>When he decided to pursue a PhD and it came time to pick a program a year ago, the choice was easy, Jones says.</p> <p>Nothing was as attractive to me as 91勛圖, he says. I even got into Oxford, but decided I wanted to be here.</p> <p>Jones doctoral research examines veteran narratives in American literature post-World War II, digging into the lives and surrounding literature of what he calls bad veterans who return home deeply affected from conflict.</p> <p>Veterans in American literature especially in good novels, plays, movies, television shows are not portrayed in the way that I want them to be, which is as complex and full characters, he says.</p> <p>The real-life stories of veterans are so powerful that they can have a profound effect in shifting perceptions of American identity and culture, Jones says.</p> <p>He notes hes keen to examine the life of notable veterans such as Lee Harvey Oswald the former veteran who later assassinated U.S. president John F. Kennedy in his writing, as well as whistleblowers such as Manning, Edward Snowden and Daniel Hale.</p> <p>After completing his PhD, Jones hopes to divide his time equally between creative writing and academic teaching.</p> <p>Hopefully I can find a job like that ideally in Toronto. I love the 91勛圖. If I could stay here forever, I would.</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-home-page-banner field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News home page banner</div> <div class="field__item">Off</div> </div> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 13:49:52 +0000 siddiq22 302591 at New graduate credits 91勛圖s Transitional Year Programme for her success and plans to pay it forward /news/graduate-credits-u-of-t-transitional-year-programme-for-her-success <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">New graduate credits 91勛圖s Transitional Year Programme for her success and plans to pay it forward</span> <div class="field field--name-field-featured-picture field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="eager" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2023-06/0396f7d2-4749-4657-89cc-2ebd81945a1e-crop.jpg?h=afdc3185&amp;itok=jPxVEcdk 370w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_740/public/2023-06/0396f7d2-4749-4657-89cc-2ebd81945a1e-crop.jpg?h=afdc3185&amp;itok=vvshrwQR 740w, /sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_1110/public/2023-06/0396f7d2-4749-4657-89cc-2ebd81945a1e-crop.jpg?h=afdc3185&amp;itok=rAtuJ3LS 1110w" sizes="(min-width:1200px) 1110px, (max-width: 1199px) 80vw, (max-width: 767px) 90vw, (max-width: 575px) 95vw" width="740" height="494" src="/sites/default/files/styles/news_banner_370/public/2023-06/0396f7d2-4749-4657-89cc-2ebd81945a1e-crop.jpg?h=afdc3185&amp;itok=jPxVEcdk" alt="&quot;&quot;"> </div> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>siddiq22</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2023-06-16T13:09:52-04:00" title="Friday, June 16, 2023 - 13:09" class="datetime">Fri, 06/16/2023 - 13:09</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-cutline-long field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cutline</div> <div class="field__item"><p><em>Floria Kangootui, wearing traditional clothing from her homeland of Namibia, graduated this week after 91勛圖's Transitional Year Programme helped her achieve her dream of attending university (supplied image)</em></p> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-author-reporters field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/authors-reporters/tabassum-siddiqui" hreflang="en">Tabassum Siddiqui</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-topic field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Topic</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/topics/our-community" hreflang="en">Our Community</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/6899" hreflang="en">Convocation 2023</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/indigenous-studies" hreflang="en">Indigenous Studies</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/equity-studies" hreflang="en">Equity Studies</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/african-studies" hreflang="en">African Studies</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/factor-inwentash-faculty-social-work" hreflang="en">Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/faculty-arts-science" hreflang="en">Faculty of Arts &amp; Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/university-college" hreflang="en">University College</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-subheadline field--type-string-long field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Subheadline</div> <div class="field__item">After overcoming challenges to achieve her dream of attending university, Floria Kangootui aims to help others by drawing on her own experiences</div> </div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>As <strong>Floria Kangootui</strong> crosses the stage at Convocation Hall this week, shell be thinking about how far shes come.</p> <p>While the 91勛圖 graduate always planned to continue her education when she fled Namibia for Canada 12 years ago, obstacles kept getting in the way until she discovered the&nbsp;<a href="https://typ.utoronto.ca/">Transitional Year Programme</a>&nbsp;(TYP).</p> <p>I wanted to go to a country where I would just feel safe and be who I am. I came not having any friends or family, not knowing anyone I just made a huge decision to come here and really wanted to go to school, recalls Kangootui, 40, who earned a bachelors degree in the Faculty of Arts &amp; Science with a major in critical studies in equity and solidarity and a double minor in Indigenous studies and African studies.</p> <p>When I arrived, I came in as a refugee claimant and did not have my immigration status yet. Due to my challenges supporting my family back home, I dropped out of school. I didnt know what to do I didnt have a voice for myself.</p> <figure role="group" class="caption caption-drupal-media align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2023-06/IMG_0203-crop.jpg" width="300" height="420" alt="&quot;&quot;"> </div> </div> <figcaption><em>Kangootui wears a stole from Black Grad 2023, a student-run celebration that highlights the accomplishments of Black graduates at 91勛圖</em><em>&nbsp;(supplied image)&nbsp;</em></figcaption> </figure> <p>Kangootui, a member of University College, left Namibia because of societal pressures, including a longstanding tradition within her family to promise girls in marriage to their cousins, as well as deeply rooted homophobia within the country.</p> <p>Once in Canada, she took a job in 2013 with a mining company in Timmins, Ont. pushing her aspiration to finish high school even further off.</p> <p>But when an Indigenous colleague at the company shared stories about residential school and the Sixties Scoop, Kangootui's desire to learn was rekindled.</p> <p>I really began questioning why I didnt know anything about this history and realized I wanted to go back to school and learn more about the history of Canada.</p> <p>After becoming a single parent in 2016 and moving back to Toronto, she was set to study community services at college when a Facebook post about 91勛圖s Transitional Year Programme caught her eye.</p> <p>The eight-month program, which helps adult students who have not completed high school enter university, offers supports including an academic adviser, access to counselling, funding options, spaces to work and social events to ensure students succeed in transitioning to undergraduate studies.</p> <p>I remember going to my first TYP meeting it was opening doors to people who never would have had the qualifications or background to go to university, Kangootui says.</p> <p>Kangootuis interest in social justice quickly found a home in her studies, which opened her eyes to inequities at home and abroad and underscored her desire to effect change.</p> <p>For example, I have people from my community who are LGBTQ they dont want to come out because of the stigma, she says.</p> <p>Learning more about equity has really changed my understanding about so many things.</p> <p><span style="line-height:normal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Kangootui credits the TYP with allowing her to fulfil her dream of higher education and for helping her to cultivate a network of peers who have overcome everything from addiction, language barriers, homelessness and more to work toward the same goal.</span></span></p> <p>Every story is so unique most of us didnt have parents who went to university. I think all of us realized that it was something we had to do, she says. The people that I have met in the program, we are still together to this day its a real community.</p> <p>Even though we may come from different backgrounds and speak different languages, we all still need a place where we feel that we belong.</p> <p>Shes also grateful for the mentorship and guidance of faculty and lecturers <strong>Francis Ahia</strong>, <strong>Stan Doyle-Wood</strong>, <strong>Chevy Eugene</strong> and <strong>Joanne Valin</strong>, as well as program director <strong>Lance McCready</strong>, registrar <strong>Shane Wallace</strong> and program administrator <strong>Maru Rodriguez</strong>.</p> <p>Floria was a committed, conscientious TYP student who built a strong network of support, says McCready, associate professor of leadership, higher and adult education at 91勛圖s Ontario Institute for Studies in Education.</p> <p>She is a shining of example of the transformative power of undergraduate studies and the importance of investing in education access for mature students.</p> <p>During her studies, Kangootui served as the upper-year representative of the <a href="https://sop.utoronto.ca/group/african-studies-course-union/">African Studies Course Union</a> and volunteered with Fife House, an organization providing supportive housing and support services to people living with HIV.</p> <p>Now I can understand others struggles based on my experience, and want to give back in any way I can. Thats my goal for the future, she says.</p> <p>Kangootui plans to live up to that commitment through the next step in her educational journey shell start a masters degree at 91勛圖s <a href="https://socialwork.utoronto.ca/">Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work</a> in the fall and hopes her achievement will inspire her seven-year-old daughter.</p> <p>She has a simple message for others facing challenges on the path to university: School does not have any age we can all do it. If I was able to go to school given my whole journey, and as a single mother, then everyone can do it.</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-home-page-banner field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News home page banner</div> <div class="field__item">Off</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-add-new-story-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Add new story tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news/tags/transitional-year-programme" hreflang="en">Transitional Year Programme</a></div> </div> </div> Fri, 16 Jun 2023 17:09:52 +0000 siddiq22 302029 at